Salem man, now on the run, faces attempted murder charges for role in shotgun attack

Anthony D. Saxton is wanted on attempted murder charges after allegedly shooting a man in Salem.

SALEM — City police are searching for a suspect who is wanted on charges of attempted murder after allegedly shooting another man with a shotgun here, said Salem County Prosecutor John T. Lenahan.

Anthony D. Saxton 40, with a last known address of Salem, has been charged with attempted murder, four counts of aggravated assault, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, and certain persons not permitted to have weapons.

His bail is set at $500,000 full cash, said Lenahan who announced the search for Saxton on Friday.

Lenahan said on March 13 at 3:07 a.m. a male victim reported to the Salem City Police station with an apparent single gunshot wound.

Chief of Salem City Police Department John Pelura III said because of the ongoing investigation he could not release information where the victim was wounded, but that the shooting did happen in Salem.

Pelura also confirmed the male victim was released from the hospital and is physically OK.

Saxton has served over four years in New Jersey State Prison for various first degree drug related charges. He was incarcerated from July 2003 to December of 2008.

The investigation is being conducted by the Salem Police Department and Salem County Prosecutor's Office.

Saxton should be considered armed and dangerous. Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Saxton should immediately call 9-1-1.